Affection is deep
My name is Zhang Wei, and I am an ordinary urban white-collar worker who grew up in an ordinary family. My parents were simple laborers, and they used their hard sweat and meager income to support me to go to college. After graduating, I worked for a large company, and after years of hard work, I became a member of the middle management of the company.
I have a sister-in-law named Lingling, who is my wife's sister. When Lingling was very young, her parents died in an accident, and she and my wife can be said to be dependent on each other. When Lingling faced the college entrance examination, her family's financial situation was not optimistic, and her tuition and living expenses became a big problem. Looking at Lingling's eager eyes, I did not hesitate to take on her tuition and living expenses, and I thought that I would support her to complete her university studies no matter what.
Four years passed in a flash, and Lingling graduated with honors and found a good job. I was sincerely happy about her achievement, but at the same time, I felt an inexplicable pressure.
On the night of graduation, Lingling came to my house, she was wearing a simple dress, she looked innocent and beautiful. She sat on the couch with a strange look.
"Brother-in-law, I have something to say to you." Lingling lowered her head, her voice trembling a little.
"What's wrong, Lingling? Let's talk about anything, we're all family. I smiled and encouraged her.
Lingling raised her head, her eyes flashing with determination: "Brother-in-law, do you know? I will never forget how you have helped me over the years. I think...... I want to repay you with my personal promise. ”
I was stunned by her words, and I never thought she would have such thoughts. I hurriedly waved my hand: "Lingling, you misunderstood. I'm helping you, not trying to give you anything in return, but I just hope you can have a good future. ”
"But......" Lingling's eyes began to redden, "I really don't know how to repay you." ”
I took a deep breath and said earnestly, "Lingling, you can successfully complete your studies and get a good job, this is the best reward for me." What you have to do now is to work hard and live well, not to think about how to repay me. ”
After Lingling heard this, tears began to roll in her eyes: "Brother-in-law, don't you really need me to do anything?" ”
I shook my head, smiled and said, "No, Lingling." You've done a great job and I'm sure you'll have a great future. ”
She seemed to want to say something, but in the end she didn't say it. I watched her departing back, and my heart was mixed.
A few days later, I heard that Lingling had performed well at work and had been praised by her superiors. I was genuinely happy for her, but at the same time I started to think about how to properly handle the relationship between me and Lingling.
I decided to talk to my wife about it. After hearing this, his wife was silent for a while, and then said softly: "Actually, I also noticed Lingling's feelings for you. She's always been grateful to you, but I think she may have misunderstood the difference between gratitude and love. ”
I nodded, "yes, we need to find a chance to talk to her and make her understand what we want." ”
A few days later, my wife and I invited Lingling over for dinner. At the dinner table, the atmosphere was warm and harmonious. I looked at Lingling, smiled and said, "Lingling, you know what? Your sister and I are very proud of you. You are now an independent, excellent woman. ”
After hearing this, Lingling showed a shy smile: "Thank you brother-in-law and sister for the compliment." ”
I took the opportunity to continue: "Lingling, there is one thing we want to talk to you about. As for the idea you mentioned earlier, your sister and I think you may have misunderstood what we meant. We don't help you in order to get anything in return. You are now grown up and should have your own life and choices. We want you to find someone who truly loves you and doesn't choose to stay with us out of gratitude. ”
After Lingling heard this, tears began to slide. She choked up and said, "Brother-in-law, sister, I know I'm wrong. I really appreciate your help and care for me, but I also understand what you mean. I will work hard and live well, and I will not let you down. ”
My wife and I looked at each other and smiled, and the boulder in my heart finally landed. We hugged Lingling tightly, and tears couldn't help but fall. At that moment, we understand that although family affection and love are both love, they have different meanings and boundaries. Only by properly handling these two emotions can we make life more beautiful and harmonious.
A few years later, Lingling has become an excellent manager and has met her true love at work. At their wedding, my wife and I, as representatives of the parents, sent our most sincere wishes. Looking at Lingling's happy smile, my heart was filled with relief and joy. I know I made the right decision.